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Chuck Hagel's performance during Thursday's confirmation hearing drew heavy criticism, but the White House is more complimentary — and confident he will be confirmed as Defense secretary.

"I think Sen. Hagel answered the questions appropriately and did a fine job," said White House spokesman Jay Carney.

The former Republican senator from Nebraska did have to endure "badgering" and "stridency" by some questioners, Carney said.

Although did he not single out John McCain and other Republican senators by name, Carney said some of Hagel's critics wanted to argue about past disputes over the Iraq War rather than ask questions about the future of the U.S. military.

There was less about Afghanistan than "why did you disagree with me over Iraq?" Carney said.

Still, Carney noted that Hagel has support from Democrats, and "we expect the Senate to confirm Sen. Hagel to the position of secretary of Defense."

As for President Obama, Carney said he "believes Sen. Hagel will make an excellent secretary of Defense and that he will be confirmed and he looks forward to working with Sen. Hagel in that position as we continue to advance our national security priorities."